Course description
Choosing to study a PGCE in Primary Education is your first step to inspiring children in learning about their world, and at Birmingham Newman University, we would love to support you in joining the profession. We understand that the Primary 3-11 age range is a crucial time for children’s development and learning. It is at this formative and particularly receptive stage of development that attitudes towards learning are formed, attitudes that will impact future life course development.
The Birmingham Newman Direct – PGCE Primary school-based programme route (3-11) and the PGCE Primary and Physical Education route (3-11) are designed to prepare you for teaching within your chosen primary age range (either 3-7 or 5-11). There are three modules developed to support your knowledge and understanding of theory, policy and practice, including the Early Years, National Curriculum and SEND frameworks.
Two level 7 modules are studied consecutively in the first and second term. These are worth 30 credits each. The third training module, studied across all three school terms, enables you to observe, reflect on and then undertake the role of the teacher in the primary phase. This is a non-credit bearing professional module which includes university training and work-related experience in school settings. The course will enable you to meet the requirements for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
For those wishing to work within Catholic schools, or who wish to develop their understanding of Religious education, there is also the opportunity to undertake the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies (CCRS) – see Additional Information for details.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
Students apply for PGCE courses viaDfE Apply.
A UK Bachelors Degree (or recognised equivalent qualification).
GCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science at grade 4 (or C) or above (or recognised equivalents). Please be aware that whilst these GCSEs are not mandatory at application point, these qualifications must be obtained by enrolment.See our page for additionalGCSE equivalency information.
Students will also be required to be assured against a set of fundamental maths and English skills by the end of their initial teacher training.
For further information about the Interview Process see our ITE Interview page.
You will need to obtain Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance and meet the requirements forfitness to train to teachprior to starting the course. For more information on your DBS application please visit the How do I complete my DBS form advice page.
International Students
Birmingham Newman University is not licensed by the UK Government to sponsor migrant students under the Student route and is therefore unable to accept applications from international students at present.
Training Course Content
Modules
- Achieving QTS Through Professional Studies
- Theory and Practice of Learning and Teaching
- Developing Teacher Expertise: Educational Enquiry in a Primary Age Phase
- Specialising in Primary Physical Education (PE Route Only)
Course delivery details
All PGCE Primary 3-11 students at Birmingham Newman University study the same mandatory level 7 module in the autumn term. This module provides opportunities for you as a trainee teacher to explore and understand in theoretical and practical terms the meaning of teaching and learning in the context of education and being a teacher. During your second level 7 module, you will develop your teacher expertise in leading a subject and carrying out a project in your school setting. It will enable you to develop your practice-based enquiry skills. During this process, your findings will impact your own and your colleagues’ understanding and practice and you will also have the opportunity to reflect on your own progress as a learner. Those on the primary PE specialist route will carry out a primary-based PE project.
School-based training is central to the PGCE Birmingham Newman Direct programme and will be a feature of all three terms of your PGCE year. You undertake placements in at least two primary schools, providing opportunities to observe and practise a range of methods and approaches.
School-based learning includes observation of experienced teachers, a structured programme of group and whole class teaching and a series of directed activities to explore wider school issues. In order to support your professional development, this work-related study is organised into three stages: Understanding Professional Practice, Managing the Classroom and Meeting the Standards. Each stage supports your transition from trainee to Early Career Teacher through clear guidance and shared expectations.
Expenses
The full-time course fee for September 2024 is £9,250.
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
Find more information on funding Birmingham Newman Direct, contact the provider.
Request info
Birmingham Newman University
Founded in 1968, Birmingham Newman University is a community-focused institution based in Bartley Green, Birmingham. It has built strong partnerships with many local businesses, charities and schools, making it an ideal choice for students wishing to gain practical experience during...